Knowing homes and writing worlds? Ethics of the 'eco-', ethics of the 'geo-' and how to light a planet. Issue 2 (3rd April 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shaw, Robert
• Is Part Of: Geografiska annaler. Volume 99:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 128
• Page End: 142
• Publication Date: 2017-04-03
• Subjects: Ecosophy -- earth -- geographical theory -- lighting -- environment -- ethics; Human geography -- Periodicals; 304.205
• DOI: 10.1080/04353684.2017.1311469
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0435-3684

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper attempts to explore the relationship between the 'eco-' prefix of the term 'ecosophy' and the 'geo-' prefix of the term geography, delving into the conceptualization of 'earth' that each prefix prioritizes. I argue that the geo- prefix has pushed geographers towards conceiving of the earth as a surface across which differences are spread, whereas the eco- prefix pushes us towards a conceptualization of the earth as 'home'. To explore this further, I focus on the ethics that they therefore encourage, particularly in consideration of how humans relate to the earth. I trace a history from Hartshorne's description of geography through a series of examples of 'geo' oriented ethical writings, before turning towards the ecosophies written about by Arne Naess and Felix Guattari. To illustrate the application of these ideas, I then explore how they might help us rethink various contemporary debates about artificial lighting in the context of climate change, light pollution, mobilities and use of energy. While the geo and the eco share multiple values, the addition and consideration of the earth as 'eco' might push geography towards a greater reflection as to how we relate to the earth and to others who might call it home.